Letters To The Editor
The letters sections of newspapers and magazines are prime forums for getting your message to a wide audience. Letters to the editor in local and regional papers are read by local activists, government officials, legislators and many community members.
Before submitting a letter, research what the word-count limit is (usually under 200 words) and make modifications based on additional information provided by your specific news outlet.
Subject: [insert appropriate subject]
Dear [Name];
When I was a kid, I couldn’t wait for my physical education (PE) class. I distinctly remember [insert favorite PE memory here]. But now that I’m a [parent/grandparent/aunt/uncle], I realize how drastically things have changed. The opportunities for play and exercise are so limited in the modern school day.
Kids don’t get half the physical activity or health education that I did when I was in school. Even though studies have shown that children who are more physically active reported higher grades than their inactive counterparts, schools still haven’t made PE a priority.
Through effective physical education, children learn how to incorporate safe and healthy activities into their lives. Physical activity also has a positive impact on reducing or avoiding tobacco use, insomnia, depression, anxiety and absenteeism.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Subject: [insert appropriate subject]
Dear [Name];
Studies show that active kids learn better. But staying healthy and active isn’t easy for kids these days. With physical education decreasing in schools, many of our children aren’t getting the physical activity they need each day to stay physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy.
Physical activity can help improve grades and scores on standardized tests. Studies have shown that children who are more physically active reported higher grades than their inactive counterparts. Through effective physical education, children learn how to incorporate safe and healthy activities into their lives.
Physical activity also has a positive impact on cognitive ability, reducing or avoiding tobacco use, insomnia, depression, anxiety and absenteeism. I know schools are struggling but I believe protecting PE.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Subject: [insert appropriate subject]
Dear [Name];
Nearly one-third of young people ages 2 to 19 are at risk of developing chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Lower-income communities are especially affected by this because they often lack the facilities, equipment, and space for children to be active.
Physical education in Oregon is needed to help our kids grow up healthy and equip children and adolescents with the knowledge and opportunity to lead a more active, healthy life.
Physical education equips students with the knowledge they need to live healthy lives and also provides them with a convenient, safe environment to play and be active during the school day. Together we can improve the health of our children by working with our government officials and school district leaders in support of effective physical education programs in schools.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]